Printing on, or bonding to, low-surface energy materials such as PE, PP, PET, nylon, PS, PC, PVC, ABS, PEEK and others can be a challenge. Due to the low surface energy wettability is low. This can result in poor print quality and adhesion.
Plasma surface treatment functionalises these surfaces by issuing a high-energy ion stream over the surface which cleans, and etches the surface ready for print or glue application.
Surface treaters are used with a wide variety of glues and adhesives including pressure sensitive, spray adhesives, cold glue, thermosetting hot-melt, and curable adhesive formulations.
Among the most common uses of plasma within the packaging industry are: